Texas storm season brings powerful winds, hail, and torrential rain that can wreak havoc on unprepared roofs. Whether you're facing tornado season in spring or hurricane threats in fall, proper preparation is your best defense.
Why Storm Preparation Matters
Central Texas experiences some of the nation's most severe weather:
- Average 13 hailstorms per year in the Austin metro
- Wind speeds regularly exceed 70 mph during storms
- Flash flooding can cause rapid water accumulation
- Tornado activity peaks March through June
A well-maintained roof can withstand these conditions. A neglected one may fail catastrophically, causing thousands in damage.
Pre-Storm Season Inspection Checklist
Exterior Inspection
Start with a visual check from the ground:
- Shingles: Look for curling, missing, or damaged pieces
- Flashing: Check around chimneys, vents, and valleys
- Gutters: Ensure they're securely attached and clear
- Fascia/Soffit: Inspect for rot or damage
- Tree branches: Identify overhanging limbs that could fall
Attic Inspection
Head inside to check for:
- Daylight: Visible light means holes or gaps
- Water stains: Indicates past or current leaks
- Mold/mildew: Suggests moisture problems
- Insulation: Ensure it's dry and in good condition
- Ventilation: Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup
Professional Assessment
While DIY inspection helps, professional evaluation is essential:
- We spot issues homeowners miss
- We access steep or dangerous areas safely
- We provide documentation for insurance
- We catch small problems before they become big ones
Schedule your free inspection today: (512) 763-5277
Essential Maintenance Tasks
1. Clean and Secure Gutters
Clogged gutters cause water backup that damages:
- Roof edges and fascia
- Foundation from overflow
- Landscape from erosion
Action items:
- Remove all debris (leaves, sticks, granules)
- Check for proper slope and drainage
- Secure loose hangers
- Repair or replace damaged sections
- Install gutter guards to reduce maintenance
2. Trim Overhanging Branches
Trees add beauty but pose storm risks:
- Dead branches become projectiles
- Overhanging limbs can crash through roofs
- Rubbing branches wear away protective granules
Best practices:
- Trim branches 6-10 feet from the roof
- Remove dead or diseased trees
- Hire certified arborists for large jobs
- Never climb on wet or storm-damaged trees
3. Replace Damaged or Missing Shingles
Even a few damaged shingles create vulnerabilities:
- Wind can get underneath and tear off more
- Water penetrates causing interior damage
- Small repairs prevent major replacement
When to replace:
- Immediately after noticing damage
- Before storm season begins
- After any severe weather event
- When granule loss is visible
4. Seal Flashing and Penetrations
Flashing protects vulnerable areas:
- Around chimneys and skylights
- At roof valleys
- Where walls meet the roof
- Around vents and pipes
Maintenance steps:
- Check for rust, cracks, or gaps
- Re-seal with appropriate caulk
- Replace damaged flashing
- Ensure proper overlap and installation
5. Check Attic Ventilation
Proper ventilation is critical:
- Prevents moisture buildup and mold
- Extends roof life by reducing heat stress
- Improves efficiency by regulating temperature
- Reduces ice dams in rare Texas freezes
Ventilation types:
- Ridge vents
- Soffit vents
- Gable vents
- Powered attic fans
Ensure intake and exhaust are balanced for optimal airflow.
Emergency Preparation
Create a Storm Kit
Keep these items accessible:
- Tarps and plastic sheeting for emergency coverage
- Duct tape for temporary seals
- Flashlights and batteries for power outages
- Emergency contacts including your roofer
- Insurance policy information and photos
Document Your Roof's Condition
Before storm season:
- Take photos of your roof from all angles
- Document existing damage or wear
- Note the installation date and materials
- Save receipts from maintenance and repairs
- Update your home inventory
This documentation proves invaluable for insurance claims.
Know Your Insurance Coverage
Review your homeowner's policy:
- What's covered: Typically wind and hail damage
- What's excluded: Usually wear and tear
- Your deductible: Know what you'll pay out of pocket
- Claim process: Understand the steps
- Time limits: File within policy deadlines
During a Storm Warning
When severe weather is imminent:
Don't Attempt Roof Access
- Stay off the roof during storms
- Avoid going outside in high winds
- Wait until it's safe to assess damage
Protect Your Interior
- Move valuables away from potential leak areas
- Place buckets or containers under active leaks
- Turn off electricity to affected areas if water is present
- Document any damage as it occurs (if safe)
Monitor Weather Updates
- Track storm progress on weather apps
- Follow local emergency management
- Heed evacuation orders if issued
- Stay informed about changing conditions
After the Storm
Immediate Actions
Once it's safe:
- Inspect for obvious damage from the ground
- Photograph any visible issues
- Tarp damaged areas if possible
- Contact your insurance company
- Schedule professional inspection
What We Look For
Our post-storm inspection examines:
- Hail damage: Bruising, dents, granule loss
- Wind damage: Lifted, torn, or missing shingles
- Water penetration: Leaks or moisture intrusion
- Structural issues: Sagging or compromised decking
- Collateral damage: Gutters, vents, flashing
Insurance Claim Assistance
Ripple Roofing helps with:
- Documentation: Detailed reports and photos
- Estimates: Accurate repair or replacement costs
- Communication: Working directly with adjusters
- Advocacy: Ensuring fair claim settlement
The Cost of Preparation vs. Repair
Consider these numbers:
- Annual maintenance: $200-500
- Minor storm repairs: $500-2,000
- Major storm damage: $5,000-15,000
- Full replacement: $8,000-25,000+
Preventive maintenance costs a fraction of emergency repairs. Plus, well-maintained roofs often survive storms that destroy neglected ones.
Partner with Ripple Roofing
Our storm preparation services include:
Pre-Season Inspection
- Comprehensive 25-point check
- Detailed photo documentation
- Written report with recommendations
- Priority scheduling for any needed repairs
Emergency Tarping
- Fast response to storm damage
- Professional temporary coverage
- Prevents additional interior damage
- Included in repair/replacement costs
Insurance Support
- Damage documentation
- Claim filing assistance
- Adjuster coordination
- Fair settlement advocacy
Schedule Your Pre-Storm Inspection
Don't wait for the first weather alert. Protect your investment now:
- Call: (512) 763-5277
- Online: Schedule Free Inspection
- Service Area: Round Rock, Austin, Georgetown, San Antonio, Killeen
Storm-Proof Your Roof Today
Prevention is always cheaper than repair. A few hours of preparation can save thousands in storm damage and give you peace of mind when dark clouds gather.
Our Promise
As a CertainTeed Shingle Master contractor, we provide:
- ✓ Expert storm damage assessment
- ✓ Fast emergency response
- ✓ Quality repairs and replacements
- ✓ 10-year workmanship warranty
- ✓ Insurance claim assistance
Ready to storm-proof your roof? Contact Ripple Roofing & Construction today!
Need more roofing advice? Explore our blog for expert tips, or check our FAQ page for answers to common questions.